October November 2022 Paper 22

AS Level Sociology 9699/22 October/November 2022

Question 1: Describe two ways that roles in the family have become more equal. [4]

One way roles in the family have become more equal is through the increased participation of men in housework. Traditionally, domestic tasks were seen as the responsibility of women, but the emergence of the ‘new man’ has led to men taking a more active role in household duties, reducing the burden on women.

Another way is the growth of dual-income families, where both men and women contribute financially. This has increased women’s economic independence and given them greater power in decision-making within the family, promoting equality.

Question 2(a): Explain two ways the family benefits its members, according to functionalists. [8]

One way the family benefits its members is through the stabilisation of adult personalities. Parsons described the family as a ‘warm bath’, where individuals can relax and relieve the stresses of work. This emotional support helps maintain mental well-being and ensures individuals can continue functioning effectively in society.

Another way is primary socialisation. The family teaches children the norms and values of society, enabling them to become integrated and cooperative members. This benefits the individual by providing them with the skills needed to function successfully in wider society.

Written and Compiled By Sir Hunain Zia (AYLOTI), World Record Holder With 154 Total A Grades, 7 Distinctions and 11 World Records For Educate A Change AS Level Sociology Full Scale Course

Question 2(b): Explain one strength and one limitation of the functionalist view of the family. [6]

One strength of the functionalist view is that it highlights the positive role of the family in meeting the needs of its members and maintaining social stability. By focusing on functions such as socialisation and emotional support, it provides a clear understanding of why the family is important for both individuals and society.

One limitation is that it presents an overly idealistic view of the family. Functionalists tend to ignore issues such as domestic violence, child abuse and gender inequality, which shows that the family can also be harmful rather than always beneficial.

Question 3(a): ‘Ethnicity is the main factor affecting the experiences of children in the family.’ Explain this view. [10]

Ethnicity can significantly shape the experiences of children through cultural norms and expectations. Different ethnic groups often have distinct values regarding discipline, education and gender roles, which influence how children are raised. For example, some cultures emphasise strict parental control and respect for authority, limiting children’s freedom.

Religious beliefs associated with ethnicity can also shape childhood experiences. In some families, children may be expected to follow specific traditions, such as arranged marriages or strict gender roles, which can affect their opportunities and autonomy.

Additionally, ethnicity may influence family structure. For instance, some ethnic groups are more likely to have extended family systems, where children grow up with multiple relatives, affecting their socialisation and support networks.

Question 3(b): Using sociological material, give one argument against this view. [6]

One argument against this view is that social class may have a greater influence on children’s experiences. For example, middle-class children are more likely to benefit from cultural capital, such as educational support and enrichment activities, which shape their development regardless of ethnicity.

Question 4: Evaluate the view that the improved position of women in society is the main reason for a decline in marriage. [26]

The view that the improved position of women has led to a decline in marriage is strongly supported by feminist perspectives.

One key argument is that increased economic independence has reduced women’s reliance on marriage. Women are now able to support themselves financially, making marriage less of an economic necessity.

Another argument is that women increasingly prioritise education and careers. As a result, marriage is often delayed or avoided altogether, contributing to its decline.

Women’s expectations of marriage have also changed. They are less willing to accept traditional domestic roles, and if relationships do not meet their expectations, they are more likely to remain single or choose cohabitation instead.

Written and Compiled By Sir Hunain Zia (AYLOTI), World Record Holder With 154 Total A Grades, 7 Distinctions and 11 World Records For Educate A Change AS Level Sociology Full Scale Course

However, there are alternative explanations. Secularisation has reduced the influence of religion, making cohabitation and remaining unmarried more socially acceptable.

The increasing cost of weddings also discourages marriage, leading couples to cohabit instead.

Changes in law, such as the Divorce Reform Act, have made it easier to leave marriages, which may discourage people from entering them in the first place.

Furthermore, individualism, as highlighted by Beck, suggests that people now prioritise personal happiness and self-fulfilment, leading to more diverse relationship choices.

Written and Compiled By Sir Hunain Zia (AYLOTI), World Record Holder With 154 Total A Grades, 7 Distinctions and 11 World Records For Educate A Change AS Level Sociology Full Scale Course

In evaluation, although the improved position of women is a significant factor, it is not the sole reason for the decline in marriage. A combination of social, economic and cultural changes has contributed to this trend.

Question 5: Evaluate the view that fatherhood is different today than in the past. [26]

The view that fatherhood has changed significantly is supported by evidence of increased paternal involvement.

Modern fathers are more involved in childcare and domestic responsibilities. The concept of the ‘new father’ reflects a shift away from the traditional breadwinner role towards active participation in family life.

There has also been a rise in stay-at-home fathers, indicating a change in gender roles and expectations.

Additionally, changing ideas of masculinity have redefined fatherhood, with greater emphasis on emotional involvement and nurturing.

Written and Compiled By Sir Hunain Zia (AYLOTI), World Record Holder With 154 Total A Grades, 7 Distinctions and 11 World Records For Educate A Change AS Level Sociology Full Scale Course

However, traditional patterns still persist. Many fathers remain primarily responsible for financial provision, while mothers continue to take on the majority of childcare duties.

Feminists argue that men’s involvement is often limited to enjoyable aspects of parenting, while women handle routine and demanding tasks.

Cultural and religious beliefs may also reinforce traditional patriarchal roles, limiting changes in fatherhood.

Written and Compiled By Sir Hunain Zia (AYLOTI), World Record Holder With 154 Total A Grades, 7 Distinctions and 11 World Records For Educate A Change AS Level Sociology Full Scale Course

In conclusion, while fatherhood has changed in many ways, particularly in terms of increased involvement and shifting gender roles, traditional expectations remain influential. Therefore, fatherhood is different today, but not entirely transformed.